Royal Caribbean is moving Symphony of the Seas from Galveston, Texas in 2027.

Royal Caribbean's original 2027 deployment schedule had Symphony of the Seas, an Oasis Class ship, sailing from Galveston year-round, offering 4- to 8-night sailings to the Western Caribbean and Perfect Day at CocoCay. 

New plans, however, call for the 228,081 gross-ton ship to sail from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

"Starting in 2027, Symphony of the Seas will reposition from Galveston, Texas, to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, offering 6- and 8-night Caribbean vacations. This repositioning allows us to continue delivering the incredible experiences guests love while thoughtfully evolving our deployment strategy," a Royal Caribbean spokesperson told Royal Caribbean Blog. 

The spokesperson clarified that sailings are not being canceled, and guests and travel partners will be contacted directly for more information about what this means for their vacation plans. 

No changes to Icon of the Seas' deployment plans

Despite the shakeup in Symphony's plans, Icon of the Seas is still set to sail from Texas for the first time in 2027. Liberty isn't going anywhere, either. 

"Galveston remains a key homeport for us, with Icon of the Seas, offering 7-night vacations, and Liberty of the Seas, now offering 4- and 5-night sailings, all from Texas in 2027—giving vacationers in Texas the opportunity to experience the industry leading Icon Class for the first time while enjoying unforgettable Caribbean adventures," the spokesperson added. 

The 248,663 gross-ton Icon of the Seas will depart on a 9-night one-way cruise from Miami to Galveston in mid-August. Upon her arrival in the Lone Star State, she'll offer 6-, 7-, and 8-night voyages to the Western Caribbean through at least April 2028. 

Read more: Texas is about to be home to one of the world's largest cruise ships

That said, Miami won't be without an Icon Class ship for long, as Icon's departure aligns with the launch of Hero of the Seas, the fourth groundbreaking Icon Class ship. Hero is expected to join Royal's fleet in August 2027. Although she’ll primarily sail weeklong Caribbean itineraries, her deployment lineup includes a mix of 3- to 9-night cruises, too. 

The newly amplified Liberty of the Seas will also call Galveston home in 2027. The Freedom Class ship will operate shorter cruises to ports like Cozumel and Costa Maya (the soon-to-be home of Perfect Day Mexico). 

Deployment changes aren't uncommon in the cruise industry

There are plenty of reasons why a cruise line may suddenly decide to redeploy a cruise ship, including demand and pricing power, fleet optimization, destination strategy, and regional demand shifts. 

Redeployments aren't necessarily uncommon, either. For example, Royal Caribbean recently informed passengers booked aboard Mariner of the Seas that the Voyager Class ship will no longer sail from England in 2027. 

Instead, Royal Caribbean decided to send the 156,271 gross-ton Freedom of the Seas to Southampton. Mariner guests may move to a new sailing on Freedom departing on the same day as their original reservation, re-book another Royal itinerary, or request a full refund. 

The cruise line blamed the swap on the "itinerary planning process," which required flexibility due to scheduling, port agreements, or operational needs.

Read more: Freedom of the Seas cruise ship redeployed to the UK in 2027 after Royal Caribbean abruptly changes plans

Following the smashing success of Royal Caribbean's new beach club in Nassau, MSC Cruises seems to be following suit.

The cruise line plans to build a private beach club in The Bahamas, acquiring and developing a 20-acre portion of the Grand Lucayan Resort on Grand Bahama Island, according to a press release. The area is currently occupied by The Reef Village. 

This new project is in addition to MSC's previously announced pier complex in Freeport and will be purpose-built for MSC and Explora Journeys passengers. 

"This agreement represents a defining moment for Grand Bahama and the future of our island," said the Honorable Philip Davis, Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas.

"The redevelopment of the Grand Lucayan Resort has long been a national priority, and this step forward speaks to our commitment to restoring Grand Bahama as a leading tourism and investment destination." 

MSC Group, the parent company of MSC Cruises, expects that the MSC Beach Club will generate hundreds of direct and indirect jobs both during construction and throughout the club's operations. 

The press release adds that development work is expected to begin on April 12, depending on whether MSC can obtain the required environmental and regulatory permits.

"This project marks the next phase of our long-term investment strategy in the Bahamas and as a family-owned company, we take a long term view and when we commit to projects of this nature, we do so with the intention and capability to deliver," remarked Gianluca Suprani, President of CTL Maritime, an entity of MSC Group. 

"When completed, this transformational investment will help to elevate Grand Bahama into one of the region's most competitive and attractive cruise destinations." 

Not the first cruise line to invest in private beach clubs

Private cruise destinations aren't exactly a new concept, with Norwegian Cruise Line first acquiring an island, which is now known as Great Stirrup Cay, in 1977. 

However, Royal Caribbean definitely set a new standard for private cruise destinations with its transformation of Perfect Day at CocoCay in 2019. 

With its massive Thrill Waterpark, adult-only beach, private cabanas, upscale beach club, and more, CocoCay is now a sought-after vacation experience, rather than just another port of call. 

The cruise line didn't stop there, either. In 2024, Royal Caribbean announced it was transforming a 17-acre strip of land on Paradise Island into a private beach club. 

The Royal Beach Club Paradise Island finally welcomed passengers in December 2025 and quickly became a highlight for cruise-goers seeking an exclusive, resort-style experience in Nassau. Amenities include private pools, local cuisine, and access to pristine stretches of Bahamian beaches. 

Royal Caribbean has plans to open private clubs in Cozumel, Santorini, and the South Pacific, too. 

Read more: I visited Royal Caribbean's Royal Beach Club Paradise Island

MSC wants a slice of the action with its new club on Grand Bahama Island

Like Nassau, Grand Bahama Island isn't the most desirable cruise destination. 

"Freeport Bahamas is quite literally the most overrated place if you don’t have some extravagant excursions planned. And even then, might still not be worth it," wrote one Redditor. 

Another chimed in, "I don't know that this is an unpopular opinion. I completely agree. My husband and I stay on the ship on Freeport day and enjoy a mostly empty ship."

"Freeport is a flea market at best. We often don’t get off the ship if that is one of the ports on our itinerary," someone else said. 

Not only is MSC planning on building a private beach club on Grand Bahama Island, but they're also investing in the development of a new cruise port in the Freeport Harbour, along with upgrades to the existing facilities. 

"This is designed not only as an infrastructure upgrade but as a complete destination enhancement, improving the visitor experience while expanding opportunities for Bahamians in commerce, culture, and tourism services," the press release states. 

Read more: I cruised on Royal Caribbean's and MSC's biggest cruise ships. One was a better experience, but the other was a better value

"When completed, the cruise port will be available to all cruise lines, positioning Freeport as one of the region's premium cruise gateways and supporting broader national and economic growth." 

The new cruise port area, together with the MSC Beach Club, is poised to transform Grand Bahama Island into a more appealing, sought-after destination for travelers — much like Royal Caribbean achieved with the success of the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in Nassau.

Silversea recently announced upcoming changes that are sure to please loyal cruisers. 

From its elegant suites to white-glove service, refined culinary program, and more, Silversea has set a high standard for ultra-luxury cruises. 

You won't find any water slides, high-diving shows, ice skating rinks, or rock climbing walls aboard its small fleet — and that's intentional. Silversea's draw has never been about adrenaline-pumping attractions or Broadway-caliber entertainment. 

Rather, the experience focuses on upscale lounges, intuitive service, and world-class cuisine that rivals even the best restaurants on land. 

And with the newly announced updates, the brand is refining its already elevated experience to feel even more luxurious and personalized. 

Here's a look at Silversea's recent changes — and why they matter for first-time and returning sailors alike. 

Enhanced loyalty benefits and milestones

Effective July 1, 2026, Silversea is revamping its Venetian Society loyalty program to provide more ways to earn status, earlier recognition, and extra benefits throughout the sailing. 

For starters, two new tiers, 15 VS Days & 50 VS Days, will be added to the program. These are designed to reward guests sooner. Currently, the second tier of the Venetian Society is 100 VS Days, leaving a sizable gap between entry-level members and more seasoned cruisers. 

"Guided by guest feedback, we’re introducing new milestones, enriched benefits, and more ways to earn VS Days— helping members unlock rewards sooner. These updates reflect our appreciation for our members' loyalty and Silversea's commitment to celebrating our extraordinary Venetian Society community," reads Silversea's website. 

Read more: 11 things that surprised me about my first luxury cruise on Silversea

At 15 VS Days, guests will get an exclusive one-time offer delivered via email. At 50 VS Days, loyalty members receive $150 shipboard credit per person for new reservations. However, per the terms and conditions, the benefit is not combinable with last-minute fares. 

These new tiers will change the Royal Caribbean Group status match program. For example, those who have 100 VS Days currently status match into Royal Caribbean's Crown & Anchor Society as a Platinum cruiser and Celebrity's Captain's Club as a Select member. 

Moving forward, 15 VS Days will match Platinum, while 50 VS Days will match Emerald. 100 VS Days will boost to Diamond within the Crown & Anchor Society and Elite within the Captain's Club. 250 VS Days will also jump to Diamond Plus and Elite Plus. 

Another change Silversea is making to its loyalty program is that they're making it a little easier to earn VS Days. Cruisers will continue to earn one VS day for every cruise day sailed, but they'll also receive one VS Day for each day spent on the cruise line's City Stays and Land Programs. 

Additionally, solo travelers (sailing with a 200% total fare) will also earn an additional VS Day per cruise day.

Silversea relaxes evening dress code

Because Silversea is an ultra-luxury cruise line, it makes sense that its dress code would be stricter than that aboard Royal Caribbean and Celebrity ships. 

However, according to an update on the line's website, it appears they are slightly relaxing the dress code, effective on voyages departing on or after June 1, 2026. 

Previously, Silversea's evening dress code expected women to wear things like trousers, a blouse, a skirt, or a casual dress. The updated guidelines broaden what's appropriate for "Elegant Casual" nights, including trousers, refined denim, casual dresses, and skirts. 

The same goes for men, who were formerly expected to pack things like open-collar shirts and dress pants. Moving forward, they, too, can wear dress pants or refined denim. Jackets will no longer be required on formal nights or in the La Dame restaurant, either. 

The biggest and most noticeable difference is that the dress code explicitly states that "refined denim" is accepted on board after 6:00 p.m. Previously, the rules prohibited jeans, shorts, hats, caps, sneakers, and flip-flop-type footwear in the evenings. 

Although the new policy is more flexible, the ship still expects passengers to maintain a certain level of decorum and bans ripped or distressed denim, shorts, short pants, ball caps, gym sneakers, T-shirts, and flip-flops from venues after 6:00 p.m.

Cruisers took to social media to express their excitement over the upcoming changes to Silversea's dress code 

"This makes me happy as I have a favorite pair of stylish, dark denim jeans that I wear 'going out on the town' at home with cute shoes and a fancy top," commented one user on a Cruise Critic forum. 

Another passenger added, "Overwhelming majority of [Silversea] guests wanted a more relaxed dress code, in line with most other lines, otherwise they wouldn't do it. But those who want to dress up can still do it, so win win for everyone."

"Thank goodness the dress code is being relaxed... [On our] last Silversea sailing we made the decision to pass on dress up night, and either ate dinner in the Grille or in our room on dressy nights. It is nice to know we will no longer be considered second class passengers because we don’t want to drag along a collection of dress clothes," someone else chimed in. 

Read more: 7 Things I'd do differently on my next Silversea cruise

Royal Caribbean joined the growing list of cruise lines canceling visits to a popular Alaska fjord this year.

Royal Caribbean's 2026 Alaska cruise season is set to kick off later this month. Travelers are either just weeks or months away from enjoying the local seafood, stunning views, and unbelievable wildlife sightings. 

However, Royal Caribbean recently informed passengers that all visits to one popular fjord are canceled due to "ongoing navigation concerns." The change affects nearly one dozen sailings departing in June, July, August, and September. 

"Due to a recent landslide and ongoing navigation safety concerns, we’ll no longer be able to cruise through Tracy Arm Fjord (Sawyer Glacier), Alaska. Instead, you’ll enjoy breathtaking scenic cruising through Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier," reads the email sent to guests on Tuesday, April 7. 

Endicott Arm is home to Dawes Glacier, a massive tidewater glacier that frequently sends enormous icebergs crashing into the fjord, while Tracy Arm Fjord is famous for its narrow passageways and twin Sawyer Glaciers.

"We apologize for the last-minute change caused by this unfortunate event – your safety is always our top priority," the email continues. 

Not the first cruise line to axe visits to Tracy Arm Fjord this year

Last month, Holland America Line removed all visits to Tracy Arm Fjord from its 2026 Alaska cruise season. 

"Our tour operator has advised [that] the Tracy Arm Fjord & Glacier Explorer in Juneau, AK has been modified due to operational considerations," the line's cancellation email said. 

"...[U]nstable ice and geological conditions currently preclude vessels from entering Tracy Arm Fjord; all 2026 departures will explore Endicott Arm Fjord instead."

Weeks later, Carnival Cruise Line notified passengers via email that all visits to the fjord were canceled due to unsuitable "geological conditions."

The change affected over two dozen sailings on three ships — Carnival Miracle, Carnival Luminosa, and Carnival Spirit — departing from late April through mid-September. 

Finally, Virgin Voyages pulled the plug on Tracy Arm Fjord visits during the line's inaugural Alaska season because of the "ongoing landslide risk."

Read more: Carnival cancels all 2026 Alaska cruise visits to popular glacier

Tracy Arm Fjord landslide

Last August, a landslide occurred in the Tracy Arm Fjord near the South Sawyer Glacier about 80 miles south-southeast of Juneau.

The incident sent a lot of rocks plunging into the water. The impact also triggered a localized tsunami within the fjord.

The U.S. Geological Survey claims that there is ongoing danger within the fjord, with "continued rockfall and smaller-scale landslide events from the exposed landslide scar are expected and could impact the water, potentially causing [a] future local tsunami."

Is Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier worth it?

Cruise itinerary changes are more common than you may think. Although they can be disappointing, maintaining a positive attitude is key to ensuring that your vacation isn't ruined before it even begins. 

Any fjord and glacier viewing experience in Alaska is memorable, and Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier is no exception. 

"For me, it was the most beautiful and memorable day of the entire trip. While we did not do [an] excursion, the ship navigated the ice in the water and went as far up the Endicott Arm as it safely could," wrote one Redditor on the r/royalcaribbean thread. 

"We got within visual distance of Dawes Glacier before the ship literally did two 360 spins to turn around. While we were still quite a ways from the glacier, the entire experience was spectacular."

Multiple cruise lines have made headlines over recent unpopular changes. Although Royal Caribbean has stayed on the sidelines, many travelers are watching closely to see if (and when) the line will follow suit. 

Generally speaking, the cruise industry follows trends, and it's not uncommon for one line to make a major change, then see other lines incorporate a similar approach. 

Royal Caribbean, for example, was the first cruise line to redefine the private island experience with its massive renovation of CocoCay. Carnival and Norwegian later copied Royal's successful blueprint and upgraded their private destination experiences. 

Along those lines, it's impossible to ignore the smaller-scale changes quietly shaping the cruise experience, from sudden gratuity increases to itinerary changes and more. 

Royal Caribbean has not made any formal announcements regarding the following changes. However, these trends have already shaken the industry, and it would not be surprising if Royal Caribbean eventually adopts similar changes. 

Raise cruise gratuities

Not even halfway through 2026, and four major cruise lines have increased their gratuities. Margaritaville at Sea kick-started the trend when cruisers noticed that the line had quietly raised the daily gratuity rates on its website back in January. 

Carnival Cruise Line quickly followed suit, sending an email to passengers in early February announcing a modest (but noticeable) increase in daily gratuities across its fleet, along with its Bottomless Bubbles soda package for adults.

By mid-April, Princess Cruises and Holland America Line (two lines that operate under the Carnival Corporation & plc. umbrella) also adjusted their daily gratuity rates, aligning them with the increases implemented by their sister brands.

Royal Caribbean hasn't publicly announced any gratuity increases. However, we wouldn't be shocked if an email popped up in travel advisors' inboxes sooner rather than later. 

Royal Caribbean last raised its daily gratuity rate in November 2024, bringing the new rate for standard cabins to $18.50 per person (up from $18) and suites to $21 per person (up from $20.50). 

Read more: Another cruise line suddenly raises the daily gratuity charges

Implement an oil surcharge

The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has caused fuel prices to skyrocket, which is impacting the cruise industry. As a result, two Asian cruise lines, StarCruises and Dream Cruises, both owned by Resorts World Cruises, implemented new fuel surcharges. 

The fees, which range from ~$11.70 to ~$25.52 USD, went into effect on March 20, 2026, for all new bookings and require all passengers over the age of two to pay, including children. This means that on a five-night cruise, a family of four could be forced to pay upwards of $525 in added fees.

"[The] fuel surcharge will be introduced for new bookings made on or after 20 March 2026. This surcharge is determined based on the operating requirements of each ship and itinerary; and may therefore vary across our fleet," reads the letter sent to booked guests. 

"This surcharge will be reviewed in line with fuel price movements and may be adjusted downward if prices ease or revised for new bookings should prices continue to rise."

Fuel is one of the cruise industry's largest and most volatile expenses, and although Royal Caribbean hedged (or pre-bought) 60% of its 2026 fuel at $474 per metric ton, the remaining 40% is subject to market fluctuations.

Like StarCruises and Dream Cruises, Royal Caribbean's cruise contract states that the cruise line has the right to impose a fuel surcharge on its guests without warning, either when booking the cruise or anytime before the sailing begins. This means that, although no surcharge has been announced, Royal Caribbean could add one if fuel prices continue to rise and stay high. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean stock has been falling as Iran war fuels oil price fears

Royal Caribbean joins the growing list of cruise lines dropping popular Alaska fjord from its 2026 itineraries

Moving on, Holland America Line was the first cruise line to cancel all excursions to Tracy Arm Fjord in Alaska due to "unstable ice and geological conditions." As such, all excursions from Juneau, Alaska, will visit Endicott Arm Fjord. 

Carnival Cruise Line also canceled all visits to the popular fjord for the entirety of the 2026 Alaska cruise season, claiming that the waterways aren't suitable for cruise ship navigation. 

Most recently, Virgin Voyages called off all visits to the Tracy Arm Fjord during the line's inaugural Alaska season because of the "ongoing landslide risk."

Read more: Carnival cancels all 2026 Alaska cruise visits to popular glacier

Although neither Carnival nor Holland America Line's emails explicitly state it, the cancellations are also likely a result of the major landslide that occurred in the fjord last August, which caused millions of cubic feet of rock to tumble into the water. The impact then triggered a localized tsunami within the fjord.

The area remains under observation, as continued rockfall and smaller-scale landslide events are expected, according to scientists from the U.S. Geological Survey. 

We previously reported that Royal Caribbean had not announced any changes to its Alaska itineraries. However, on April 7, they sent an email to passengers, confirming they also axed the fjord from its schedule.

"Due to a recent landslide and ongoing navigation safety concerns, we’ll no longer be able to cruise through Tracy Arm Fjord (Sawyer Glacier), Alaska. Instead, you’ll enjoy breathtaking scenic cruising through Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier," the email reads. 

"We apologize for the last-minute change caused by this unfortunate event – your safety is always our top priority."

Royal Caribbean's newest ships have some of the most opulent suites at sea. 

Wallet-friendly cruisers will appreciate the affordable, albeit windowless, inside cabins. However, those with a larger vacation budget will appreciate splurging on a stateroom within Star of the Seas' Royal Suite Class.

From the somewhat-justifiable Sky Junior Suites to the multi-deck Ultimate Family Townhouse, guests staying within the Royal Suite Class will be treated to an elevated cruise experience, complete with access to a suite-only sun deck and dining room, upgraded bathrooms, spacious accommodations, and more. 

Beci Mahnken, the founder and CEO of MEI-Travel, shared photos of the Owner's Suite on Star of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's newest Icon Class ship. Mahnken has over 25 years of experience and specializes in Disney vacations, Universal trips, and the major cruise lines.

"Love the color palette of this one-bedroom onboard Star of the Seas—calming, polished, and effortlessly relaxing. It’s the kind of space that makes it easy to unwind… or convince yourself a nap is absolutely necessary before dinner," she said on Facebook.

Onboard Star of the Seas, there are eight Owner's Suites — all located within the Suite Neighborhood on Decks 16 and 17. Mahnken stayed in cabin #17012, which is one deck below the Grove suite-only sun deck. 

Like the other Sky Class suites, the Owner's Suite aboard Star of the Seas isn't the cheapest cabin on board. According to Royal Caribbean's website, an ocean-view balcony aboard Star's June 27, 2027, sailing starts at $2,592 per person. Comparatively, Owner's Suite comes in at around $14,908 per passenger, or $29,814 for a 7-night cruise for two people.

Here's a photo tour of an Owner's Suite on Star of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's newest Icon Class ship, sailing from Port Canaveral, Florida, to the Eastern and Western Caribbean.

Read more: 7 things I wish I knew before my first cruise on Star of the Seas

Indoor and outdoor living areas

With over 650 square feet of interior living space, the Owner's Suite on Star of the Seas isn't your standard cruise cabin. Rather, the spacious suite offers plenty of room to entertain and relax. 

In addition to a comfy sectional, the living area has a small dining table, making it easy to enjoy meals in your suite. For example, if the weather is inclement, you can opt for room service breakfast inside and not have to worry about cramming around the small coffee table. 

Moving on, the traditional living space also serves as an extra sleeping area, with the sectional converting into a double sofa bed when needed. Along with the Royal King (which can be split into two twin-sized beds), the Owner's Suite can sleep up to four guests.

The 190-square-foot balcony isn't as jaw-dropping as the verandahs found in some of the larger Star Class suites — think the Royal Loft Suite or the Ultimate Family Townhouse. 

Still, the plush seating and al fresco dining table ensure that the private retreat is versatile. Whether you want to catch up on your to-be-read (TBR) list or host an evening cocktail hour, the balcony's space is easily adaptable. 

Owner's Suite bedroom

The Owner's Suite aboard Star of the Seas has a separate bedroom, giving the primary passengers more privacy. The sleeping area is thoughtfully designed, too, with the bed positioned toward the floor-to-ceiling windows so guests can enjoy uninterrupted ocean views.

Storage space is also plentiful in the room. There's a large closet, built-in drawers, hooks, and more, which allows passengers to unpack and keep everything organized during their vacation. 

Star of the Seas' Owner's Suite has an upgraded vanity area, too. Tucked just off the closet area, the vanity features a well-lit mirror, generous counter space, and multiple outlet sockets. 

Perhaps one of the most impressive spaces in the suite is the expansive bathroom, which forgoes the traditional capsule showers and cramped counters.

Instead, the bathroom has a nice soaking tub, a separate shower, and a massive vanity with dual sinks. The blue tile immediately catches your eye and adds a vibrant pop of color that blends with the stateroom's color palette. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean suites guide & review

Royal Caribbean Owner's Suite perks

Royal Caribbean's Royal Suite Class is comprised of three different tiers: Sea, Sky, and Star. The Owner's Suite falls within the Sky Class tier. While it does not include some of the perks reserved for Star Class guests, it comes with a slew of benefits that definitely enhance the overall onboard experience. 

Perks for the Sky Class Owner's Suite on Star of the Seas include:

• Concierge Service
• All-Day Access to Coastal Kitchen*
• Specialty Bottled Water (upon arrival)
• VOOM, The Fastest Internet at Sea
• Flexible Arrival Boarding & Priority Departure
• Priority Dining Reservations
• Reserved seating section in select entertainment venues (reservations required)
• Suite Lounge Access
• Access to The Grove Suite Sun Deck:
• Royal Caribbean Plush Bathrobes for use onboard
• Luxury Pillow Top Mattress and Linen
• Luxury Bathroom Amenities
• Lavazza Espresso Coffee Machine 

Four Royal Caribbean ships are currently out of service in dry dock at the same time.

Three of the vessels are undergoing major Royal Amplification upgrades, while one is receiving routine maintenance to ensure that she stays fully operable and in good condition for years to come. 

Ovation of the Seas was the first ship to begin this year's busy dry dock season, arriving in Singapore on March 16, 2026. Harmony of the Seas followed, with the work on the Oasis Class ship starting on April 2. Liberty of the Seas is next, entering the shipyard in late April to undergo her long-awaited Royal Amplification upgrades. 

Odyssey of the Seas is the only Royal Caribbean ship currently in dry dock for routine maintenance. 

Here's everything we know about the work that the cruise line has ordered for all the vessels in dry dock right now. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean just announced major upgrades to its cruise ships

Ovation of the Seas Dry Dock

Ovation of the Seas is in dry dock in Singapore. She's expected to re-enter service on April 17, embarking on a 14-night one-way cruise from Singapore to Japan. 

Guests can look forward to a range of enhancements across the ship, including new restaurants, updated entertainment venues, refreshed accommodations, and restored public spaces.

For starters, 40 new staterooms are being added to the Quantum Class ship, including the popular (and expensive) Ultimate Family Suite and Panoramic Suites. 

Ovation will also receive a renovated pool deck, expanded casino, Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen, Izumi Teppanyaki, the tiki-themed Pesky Parrot bar, and a new nightlife spot called Sound Cellar.

To make room for these additions and changes, a few amenities are being axed. The Bionic Bar, for instance, is being replaced by the Pesky Parrot, Izumi Teppanyaki will take the space of the whimsical Wonderland specialty restaurant, and Jamie's Italian will be transformed into Giovanni’s.

Finally, the Music Hall will be replaced by an expanded Casino Royale and the new Sound Cellar venue. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean reveals plans to upgrade one of its cruise ships with a giant casino, new restaurants, and more

Harmony of the Seas Dry Dock

Next up on the docket is Harmony of the Seas. She is stationed in Cádiz, Spain, and is expected to return to service on May 21, offering a quick 3-night getaway to celebrate her new upgrades. 

Although Harmony is one of Royal Caribbean's newer mega-ships, the dry dock work will give her the line's newest innovations and freshen up public spaces. 

Updates include a new Caribbean-style pool area with The Lime & Coconut bar, El Loco Fresh, a redesigned adult-only Solarium, Samba Grill Brazilian Steakhouse, relocated Crown Lounge, the largest Casino Royale in the fleet, Playmaker's Sports Bar & Arcade, and Pesky Parrot Bar. 

And like Ovation of the Seas, they're adding more than 90 new cabins to Harmony of the Seas, including the Ultimate Family Suite. 

What's on its way out? Wonderland, Sabor, the Bionic Bar, and the Conference Center. The total square footage of the Solarium is also being reduced to make way for new suites. 

Read more: Royal Caribbean will add upgrades to the biggest ship it's ever changed. Here's what's planned

Liberty of the Seas Dry Dock

Liberty of the Seas was supposed to undergo her Royal Amplification dry dock in 2021, but those plans were canceled due to the industry shutdown during the global pandemic. 

Now, she's en route to Europe to finally get her much-needed upgrades. Liberty departed from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on April 3 on a one-way cruise to England. She'll arrive in Southampton on April 19, then head to the shipyard. 

Liberty of the Seas will receive similar changes as the Harmony and Ovation ships, including a reimagined pool deck, a new Royal Escape Room concept, more cabins, and an expanded casino. 

She will also get new food and beverage options, including El Loco Fresh, The Lime & Coconut bar, Izumi Teppanyaki, and Starbucks.

Venues being removed from Liberty of the Seas include Sabor, the Card Room on Deck 10, The Connoisseur Club, On Air, and Boleros. 

After the work is completed, Liberty will begin her summer European season on May 29. She'll offer various itineraries from Southampton to destinations like Norway, Germany, Spain, and Portugal before moving to Galveston in October.  

Read more: Royal Caribbean will upgrade Liberty of the Seas cruise ship with new restaurants, cabins, and more

Odyssey of the Seas Dry Dock

Finally, Odyssey of the Seas is in southern France for a cruise ship dry dock. She was floated into a narrow basin of water, which was then drained to allow technicians and mechanics easy access to the ship's hull. 

Although Royal Caribbean has not disclosed what work is being performed on the Quantum Class ship, dry docks typically include routine mechanical work; inspections of propeller blades, thrusters, stabilizers, and navigation software; cleaning of the hull with a power-washing system; and replacing any worn or damaged parts. 

Minor interior refurbishments may also be completed, such as repainting venues or replacing worn carpets and bedding. In short, a dry dock is when the cruise line gets a chance to give the ship a little more attention that can't be done when there are thousands of passengers on board. 

(Credit: Sarges Raffy / Facebook)

Odyssey of the Seas will return to service on April 16, embarking on an 8-night cruise from Barcelona to Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy. 

Tampa's cruise port is so busy that it's building a new terminal to handle the demand. 

Although Tampa isn't home to record-breaking mega-ships, it's a popular departure port for mid-sized vessels, ranging from Grandeur of the Seas to Rhapsody of the Seas, Margaritaville at Sea's Islander, Carnival Paradise, and more. 

In 2025, Port Tampa Bay had record-breaking numbers, welcoming over 1.6 million cruise passengers and over 262,000 shipping containers, according to Spectrum Bay News 9. 

And there are no signs of slowing down, either. In 2026, for example, Tampa expects over 390 cruise ship calls, reflecting strong demand fueled by its convenient location and efficient operations.

Port officials are also expecting around 1.8 million cruise passengers to pass through the Tampa this year. 

Matthew Thompson, VP of Port Operations, explained why he believes the port continues to attract so many cruisers.

"We have a [world-class] airport. It is easy to get around. Our passenger[s] are finding it [really] simple to make...reservations, get on the ships and just have a great time," he told Bay News 9.

"We are also seeing and hearing stories that a lot of them either on the front end or the back end... [wanting] to spend some time in Tampa or maybe the beaches in Pinellas and just kind of check out this area in conjunction with their cruise."

As such, the port is gearing up for future growth and moving forward with its "Master Plan Vision 2030" project, which includes constructing warehouses and expanding terminals to increase passenger capacity. 

Simply expanding existing infrastructure isn't enough, though, so Tampa is also building a brand-new cruise terminal.

Fourth cruise terminal in the works

As of 2026, Port Tampa Bay has three cruise terminals: Terminal 2, Terminal 3, and Terminal 6. However, these terminals are running out of room and cannot meet the current demand. 

Tampa Lastest, for example, shared that the port is "already turning away new cruise itineraries due to limited space."

Supposedly, Tampa's fourth cruise terminal will be able to deliver up to 200 more ship calls annually and welcome over 1 million additional passengers, putting the port's yearly totals over 2.5 million, the Tampa Bay Business Journal reported. 

Although still in the early planning phases, design work is expected to be completed sometime in the next year. 

The port has also already outlined its goals for the new terminal, with the expansion project hopefully improving passenger flow, reducing downtown traffic congestion, adding modern amenities like shore power, and giving cruise lines the extra capacity they need. 

Dreams of bigger cruise ships sailing from Tampa are dead

In January, SSA Marine, a marine terminal operator that's been around since 1949, announced a proposal, in collaboration with Tampa-based Slip Knott LLC, to build a multi-berth cruise port in Manatee County.

The terminal would have been built on a massive coastal property known as the Knott‑Cowen tract at the mouth of Tampa Bay, next to the Bob Graham Sunshine Skyway Bridge. 

Being on the seaward side of the bridge would bypass the bridge’s height restrictions, allowing larger and more innovative ships to dock in Tampa.

However, on Thursday, March 19, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed a bill blocking the proposed cruise port, as reported by The Herald-Tribune.

"Florida remains an important destination for cruise expeditions," DeSantis said during the press conference in Bradenton. "There's not really a need to add another port in the middle of a conserved area and aquatic preserve."

He added that the necessary work required to build the new terminal "...would have a major, major change in the lifestyle and the environment of the folks that live in this area."

Read more: It's Official: New Tampa Cruise Port Plans Are Dead

Imagine sailing on a cruise ship where robots move alongside talented performers, help clean hard-to-reach windows, and even scrub the hull underwater. 

Royal Caribbean has found a way to use technology to add to the overall entertainment experience and improve efficiency.

"We have always been acutely focused on delivering the best possible experience using technology... We are constantly trying to innovate and improve it," says Michael Bayley, President & CEO of Royal Caribbean International, in a recent YouTube video.

Enter collaborative robots, AKA cobots. These cobots aren't tucked away in a back room like traditional industrial robots that purposely work behind the scenes. Rather, they work side by side with crew members to enhance every part of the cruise experience. 

Here's a look at how Royal Caribbean uses robots aboard its newer cruise ships. 

Cobots help create immersive and unforgettable shows

"We've been working with robots for years at Royal. Obviously, on the Quantum Class ships, we have these amazing robots on [a] gantry with these giant 7x4-foot LED screens. We thought, okay, how can we bring those into the mix again?" explains Alex Marchant, Senior Director, Entertainment Creative & Strategy at Royal Caribbean.

In addition to the impressive robots in Two70, robots have been integrated into the enclosed AquaTheaters aboard Icon Class ships. 

On Icon of the Seas, for example, there are four robots located on the three-meter upstage area that help to set the scene. 

(Credit: Royal Caribbean International / YouTube)

They aren't just props or something there for street cred — though they certainly do wow the audience. Instead, they serve as a point of connection for a lot of the show's signature pieces and are just as important as the entertainers. 

"It isn't our classic AquaTheater. It is truly kind of the reboot and reimagination. And the robots being integrated into it is an amazing transformation of our AquaTheater experience," remarks Jay Schneider, Senior Vice President, Chief Product Innovation Officer at Royal Caribbean. 

In the Royal Theater, Royal Caribbean continues to evolve the entertainment experience with advanced features, such as a giant LED wall, six motorized platforms that move dynamically, and side stages with additional LED screens.

"[O]ur visual for the audience has just grown immensely. The audience is not going to know what's hit them," Marchant boasts. 

Cobots also help keep cruise ships running smoothly

Other robots help keep the ship running smoothly. This makes operations more efficient and sustainable for crew and guests. For example, aboard Star of the Seas, robotic cleaners help keep the ship clean. 

"We do not want to decrease crew members; we want to increase their productivity and their interaction with the guests. And that's the whole idea of getting the robots on board to help them... We wanted to add to the quality of our work, and [the robots] offer us that," explains Johanita Jacobs, Senior Director, Housekeeping Operations at Royal Caribbean. 

When the robots were added on board, every area of the ship was mapped and assigned a QR code, which tells the robotic cleaners — named Bob and Betsy — what duty is expected of them in different places. 

(Credit: Royal Caribbean International / YouTube)

Jacobs also confirmed that robotic cleaners will be coming to all Icon Class ships, and she can see them potentially being added to new developments in the future. 

Something else innovative aboard Icon Class ships is the use of underwater hull-scrubbing robots. 

"We have our hull scrubbing vessel [robots] on board Icon Class. This underwater robot is like a drone, and it has brushes... [to] scrub the hull. Keeping the hull clean is everything to do with fuel consumption and efficiency," says Rob Hempstead, Captain of Star of the Seas. 

(Credit: Royal Caribbean International / YouTube)

Harri Kulovaara, Executive Vice President, Maritime, added that keeping a hull as clean as possible is essential for the ship’s performance and sustainability. 

Since nearly half of the ship’s energy is used for propulsion — and 80% of that energy is spent overcoming friction with the water — a clean hull can significantly reduce fuel consumption and environmental impact.

Read more: Technology that changed cruises: 5 of the best uses of tech on Royal Caribbean today

This year's Atlantic hurricane season is right around the corner, with experts predicting up to 16 named storms, including as many as four major hurricanes.

Tropical storms can quickly disrupt cruise itineraries and travel plans. However, staying informed and purchasing travel insurance can help cruisers navigate the season's unpredictability with greater confidence. 

AccuWeather's forecast points to a slightly near to below-average season, but still warns that anywhere from 11 to 16 named storms are predicted to develop. Additionally, three to five storms could make direct landfall in the United States.

"It's very important that everybody from South Texas all the way to Maine prepares equally for each and every hurricane season, regardless of what the official forecast is," AccuWeather Lead Hurricane Expert Alex DaSilva said.

"Even if it's expected to be a slightly below average hurricane season, we can still see major hits across the United States."

11 to 16 named storms in 2026, with four to seven becoming hurricanes and two to four major hurricanes, defined as Category 3 or higher

According to AccuWeather, this year's hurricane season will be shaped by a shifting climate pattern in the Pacific Ocean. 

El Niño is one phase of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) cycle, which also includes La Niña and ENSO-neutral. The ENSO cycle plays a key role in global climate patterns and can affect everything from weather to wildfires, ecosystems, and economies. 

Last month, meteorologists at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced that the likelihood of an El Niño developing by mid-summer significantly increased. 

Read more: El Niño watch issued, what it means for cruise ships during hurricane season

Typically, El Niño creates stronger upper-level winds across the Atlantic, which makes it more difficult for tropical storms to develop. This could mean there are fewer named tropical storms during the most active weeks of the season compared to the first half. 

Still, the presence of El Niño doesn't guarantee a below-average hurricane season. In fact, during the most recent El Niño in the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season, 20 named storms formed. 

"What made 2023 very special is it was also the warmest year on record if we take a look at the average sea surface temperatures across the Atlantic basin," DaSilva explained. 

AccuWeather's forecast predicts that the Atlantic waters will be warm throughout 2026, though not reaching the same record highs seen in 2023.

Concerned about rapid intensification

Storms draw a lot of their energy from warm water, which is why experts are worried about rapid intensification during this year's hurricane season. 

"This year we are very concerned about rapid intensification, very similar to the last couple of years," DaSilva said.

It's not just the surface temperatures that play a key role in storm development, either. Deep ocean heat content waters, which are hundreds of feet deep across most of the hurricane basin, can also intensify storms. 

"Those waters are also exceptionally, exceptionally warm. That is why once again we are very concerned about rapid intensification this upcoming hurricane season," DaSilva added. 

Another factor raising concerns is the possibility of the Atlantic hurricane season starting earlier than the official start on June 1.

AccuWeather's report says that warm weather in places where storms typically develop early in the season means that it may not take much for tropical activity to kick off. 

Early in the hurricane season, "homegrown development" is most frequent, which occurs when a storm or front moving across North America stalls over the Gulf, western Caribbean, or western Atlantic. As it sits over the warm water, it could develop into a tropical depression, tropical storm, or even a hurricane.

What to know about going on a cruise during the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season

You shouldn't avoid cruises during hurricane season. In fact, with proper planning and expectation management, it can be a great time to go.

Cruise lines closely monitor weather conditions and may adjust itineraries to avoid storms, making it a safe option for travelers. The only caveat is that you must remain flexible. If you want to visit the Eastern Caribbean, you might be disappointed if your itinerary is changed at the last minute to call at Cozumel, Mexico, and Roatán, Honduras. 

Additionally, cruisers can take advantage of lower prices during hurricane season. As an example, a 7-night cruise on Icon of the Seas in early July 2026 starts at around $1,586 per person for an inside room. However, the price for the same itinerary in October drops to $1,393 for an interior cabin. 

Regardless, having a good travel insurance policy that covers incidentals in case a named storm impacts your vacation is key. Hurricanes, for instance, can disrupt air travel as much as cruise itineraries, which could put a damper on your vacation before it even begins!

This year, experts say the northern and northeastern Gulf Coast and the Carolinas are at the highest risk for direct impacts, making flexibility and solid preparation crucial for travelers coming to or from these areas.

Read more: Why your Caribbean cruise forecast says rain every day (and why it usually doesn’t matter)